Cedarwood (Juniperus virginiana)

Fun fact: Cedarwood is used to make pencils, which makes its aroma reminiscent of school days gone by.

If the smell of a newly sharpened pencil brings back good memories, you'll love the mild, sweet, woody scent of cedarwood. Native Americans valued cedarwood for its healing and purification properties. They used it to combat respiratory infections, and also to treat arthritis, skin rashes, and kidney infections. Cedarwood was also used in some ceremonies for purification. Egyptians also embraced cedarwood, and used it in the mummification process, cosmetics, and to repel insects. Insects and rats hate the smell of cedarwood, therefore it makes a great repellent, especially against mosquitoes, moths, and woodworms. In fact, at one time cedarwood was combined with citronella and used as a commercial insecticide. Today, aromatherapists use cedarwood in a variety of capacities, from insect repellent to mood relaxer.

Mixes well with: Anise, bergamot, citronella, chamomile, eucalyptus, ginger, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, palmarosa, patchouli, pine, rosemary, and sandalwood.

Parts used: Wood chips and sawdust.

Extraction method: Steam distillation.

Safety Information: Avoid if pregnant. Possible irritant to skin in sensitive types. Do a patch test first.